Health Law

GE Salmon: Poll Reveals Consumer Skepticism

By Dan Flynn and Suzanna Schreck

Despite the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's recent announcement that bioengineered salmon is safe, many are still wary of the idea. 

The Center for Food Safety criticized the FDA's analysis as misguided and dangerous. Federal tests were "insufficient in determining the long-term, unforeseen consequences" of genetic engineering, said Wenonah Hauter, director of Food & Water Watch.

If environmental and health groups remain suspicious of bioengineered foods, what do consumers think? Although genetically modified salmon would be cheaper to produce and therefore cheaper for consumers, it appears many have their doubts.

The Washington Post polled its readers, asking, "If genetically engineered salmon wins FDA approval, will you buy it?"

Ten percent of those who responded to the unscientific survey said, "Maybe, I'd need to see more research about the possible health and environmental consequences," while 17 percent selected, "Yes. We already eat genetically engineered crops like corn and soybeans."

An overwhelming 78 percent responded, "No. I'm too concerned about potential health and environmental risks."

The FDA will hold two public meetings on GM salmon Sept. 19-21 and then will decide whether to approve the fish.  If the salmon wins approval, AquAdvantage has said it could take up to three years before it would be marketed to consumers.

Full post as published by Food Safety News on September 13, 2010 (boomark / email).